A Ridge Too Far

In 1999, fifty-two years after Independence, Pakistani forces once again intruded into Indian territory across the Line of Control (LoC), initiating what has come to be known as the ‘Kargil Border War’. A Ridge Too Far is the story of this war, narrated from a military point of view. It was the first and remains the most successful attempt to tell the military story with close attention to facts, and after a detailed study of all the battles that were fought in the Kargil heights. The book is divided into four parts. Part I is an overview of the situation that gave rise to the war, covering the history of conflict between India and Pakistan. Part II describes the harsh terrain that exists on both sides of the LoC—the theatre of the war—in adapting to which the Indian soldier displayed exceptional valour and discipline, and great qualities of leadership. Part III details the build-up by the Indian Army before conducting offensive operations, and the actual conduct of battle from Corps to Brigade. And Part IV gives a stirring account of the heroic battles fought by ten infantry battalions. Meticulously researched and skilfully narrated, this book also seeks to record for posterity the thoroughly professional response and gallant performance of all those who fought the war for India or were concerned with its direction, from the Chief of Army Staff to the youngest soldier.